24 Best Things To Do in Malmo – Perfect Copenhagen Day Trip

If you are visiting Copenhagen and fancy exploring another country during your trip, Malmö is one of the easiest places to visit.

Located in southern Sweden, Malmö is only around 40 minutes from Copenhagen by train. You can leave Denmark in the morning, cross the famous Øresund Bridge and spend the day exploring Malmö’s historic squares, parks, museums and waterfront before returning back to Copenhagen.

Malmö is Sweden’s third-largest city, but many of its main attractions are close together, making it a good destination to explore on foot. There are also plenty of free things to do, which is welcome if you are travelling around Scandinavia on a budget.

In this guide I’m going to showcase all the highlights you do not want to miss and all the things to do in Malmo in one day and even some attractions that may require extra time if you are staying for longer. From the colourful buildings of Lilla Torg to the modern Turning Torso and Ribersborg Beach, here are the best things to do in Malmö on a day trip from Copenhagen.

Is Malmö Worth Visiting as a Day Trip From Copenhagen?

First off let’s get into why Malmo is worth visiting as a day trip from Copenhagen. There are plenty of choices of day trips from Copenhagen so why choose Malmo?

One of the main reasons is you get to see another country that albeit similar you experience different things.

I would not visit expecting a huge list of world-famous attractions. Malmö is a more relaxed destination where you can walk around the old town, visit a museum, enjoy a Swedish fika and spend some time by the sea.

It is also an easy trip to organise independently. You do not need to book a tour or rent a car, and you can see many of Malmö’s main sights without paying an entrance fee.

If you only have two or three days in Copenhagen, I would focus on Copenhagen itself first. But if you have a longer trip planned, Malmö is an enjoyable and straightforward day trip.

How to Get From Copenhagen to Malmö

The easiest way to get from Copenhagen to Malmö is by Öresundståg train.

Trains depart from Copenhagen Central Station, listed as København H, and arrive at Malmö Central Station in around 35–40 minutes. The route crosses the Øresund Bridge, which connects Denmark and Sweden.

Trains generally run around every 20 minutes during the day, although times can vary. Check the timetable before travelling, especially on weekends or when engineering works are planned.

You can buy a ticket online, through a transport app or from the ticket machines at Copenhagen Central Station. Make sure your ticket covers the full journey to Malmö, as a Copenhagen local transport ticket alone will not necessarily cover the crossing.

Although Denmark and Sweden are both part of the Schengen Area, you are crossing an international border. Bring the passport or national identity card required for your nationality, as checks can take place.

You can also drive across the Øresund Bridge, but there is a heavy toll. You will also need to have parking headaches. All in all it becomes much more expensive. For a day trip focused on Malmö city centre, I would take the train.

How to Get Around Malmö

Malmö is a walkable city, and you can reach many of its main attractions on foot from Malmö Central Station. The old town, Stortorget, Lilla Torg and St. Peter’s Church are all close together.

For places further away, such as Ribersborg Beach or Möllevångstorget, you can use the local buses. If you need to use public transport in Malmö, you can check bus routes, timetables and ticket prices on the official Skånetrafiken website.

An Öresundståg ticket may also include a connecting local bus journey in Malmö within a limited time after arrival. Check your ticket conditions before buying a separate bus ticket.

Best Things to Do in Malmö

Now that we know how to get to Malmo and how to travel in the actual city centre, here is a list of all the best things to do in Malmo. Some of these are easy to combine in one day while others are a bit of a stretch. Then it is up to you which attractions you choose. Below is also a map with all the pinned locations of each attraction so it helps you visualise where things are as you read.

1. Explore Malmö’s Old Town

Malmö’s old town, known as Gamla Staden, is the best place to start your visit. It is just a short walk from Malmö Central Station and contains several of the city’s main attractions.

Here you will find historic squares, colourful buildings, churches, shopping streets and plenty of cafés. The area is compact, so you can easily walk between the main sights and take a few detours along the smaller streets.

You do not need a strict route to explore the old town. Start around Stortorget, continue to Lilla Torg and then make your way towards the castle and parks.

2. See Stortorget

Stortorget is Malmö’s largest historic square and one of the first places you are likely to reach when walking from the train station.

The square is surrounded by grand buildings, with a statue of King Charles X Gustav on horseback in the centre. One of the most noticeable buildings is Malmö City Hall, which has an impressive decorative façade. I really took my time taking it all in and the paintings along the buildings was very complimentary.

Stortorget does not take long to see, but it is an easy stop on your way through the city centre. From here, you can walk to Lilla Torg and St. Peter’s Church in just a few minutes.

3. Visit Lilla Torg

A short walk from Stortorget is Lilla Torg, which I think is one of the prettiest places to visit in Malmö.

The smaller square is surrounded by colourful buildings, including traditional half-timbered houses. There are also several cafés and restaurants with outdoor seating, making it a nice place to stop when the weather is good.

Lilla Torg is worth visiting even if you are not planning to eat here. Walk around the square, look at the older buildings and take a few photos before continuing through the old town.

If you are travelling on a budget, check restaurant menus before sitting down. You may find cheaper places to eat away from the square itself and let’s face it Sweden alongside its Scandinavian neighbours is not the cheapest for anything

4. Graffiti and Coloured Houses in old Town.

While walking down Malmo’s old town there are some hidden gems. One of these is a series of coloured houses along the street which are very pretty to look at. This was just a 2 minute stop and may not be worth the detour.

However something that may be worth it, is 2 huge buildings filled with beautiful graffiti or murals, I don’t know what they’re exactly called. Anyways have a look for yourself.

5. Visit St. Peter’s Church

St. Peter’s Church, or Sankt Petri Kyrka, is one of Malmö’s oldest buildings and is well worth visiting.

From outside, you can see its tall tower rising above the surrounding streets. Inside, the Gothic church is equally impressive.

It is a good place to stop for a short visit, especially as it is close to Stortorget and Malmö Central Station. Remember that it is still an active church, so be respectful if a service or event is taking place.

Cost: Generally free to enter; donations may be welcomed. Check opening times before visiting.

6. Walk Along Södergatan

Södergatan is one of Malmö’s main pedestrian shopping streets. It connects the old town with the area around Gustav Adolfs Torg and is easy to include in your day trip.

Along the street, you will find a mixture of shops, cafés and places to eat. Even if you are not interested in shopping, it is a convenient route through the city centre.

Look out for the Optimistic Orchestra, a group of bronze sculptures showing musicians walking together along the street. It is a quick photo stop that you can see while passing through.

7. Visit Gustav Adolfs Torg

Gustav Adolfs Torg is another central square and a useful place to pass through while exploring Malmö.

It is not as picturesque as Lilla Torg, but it connects several streets in the city centre. Depending on when you visit, there may also be stalls or seasonal activity in the square.

I would not make a detour just to see it, but it is easy to include while walking along Södergatan and is almost halfway to our next stop.

8. Explore Malmö Castle and Malmö Museum

If you want to visit one paid attraction during your Malmö day trip, Malmö Castle, also known as Malmöhus Castle, is a good option.

The castle is home to Malmö Museum, where exhibitions cover subjects including local history and nature. There is also an aquarium, making it an option for families or anyone looking for something to do indoors.

Do not visit expecting a palace filled with luxurious royal rooms. The appeal is mainly the historic castle setting and the museum collections inside. I did not go inside but merely admired the castle from the outside as all honesty I had enough of castles as I visited plenty during my stay in Copenhagen.

Cost: Paid entry. Check the Malmö Museum website for current prices and opening times.

9. Walk Through Kungsparken

Close to Malmö Castle, Kungsparken is a peaceful green space with walking paths, trees and waterways.

It is a pleasant place to take a break from the city centre, especially on a sunny day. You can walk through the park on your way to the castle or simply find a bench and relax for a while.

If you are looking for free things to do in Malmö, the parks around the castle are among the easiest places to add to your plans.

If you are coming from Gustav Adolfs Torg yo will eventually walk through Kungsparken and the next park to make your way to the castle.

Cost: Free.

10. Explore Slottsparken and the Castle Garden

Next to Kungsparken, Slottsparken is another park worth exploring during your day trip.

The two parks are close together, so you can easily walk through both without needing to make a separate journey. There are open green areas, paths and water views, as well as places to stop if you have brought a packed lunch.

While you are in the area, look for Slottsträdgården, Malmö’s castle garden. Depending on the season, you can see flowers, vegetables and other plants. There is also a windmill nearby, which makes a nice photo stop.

The gardens are likely to be at their most colourful during the warmer months, so keep that in mind if you are visiting Malmö in winter.

Cost: Free to walk through the parks and garden.

11. See the Turning Torso

Now it is time to explore another area of Malmo. It is around a 20 minute walk from the castle.

The Turning Torso is Malmö’s most recognisable modern landmark. The twisting skyscraper stands in the Västra Hamnen area and can be seen from several parts of the city.

It looks very different from the historic buildings in the old town, so it is worth seeing if you have time to explore the waterfront. You can walk over for a closer look and then continue along the coast.

The building is mainly used for residences and offices, so you cannot normally just turn up and go to the top. Special visits may be available at certain times, but you will need to check in advance.

Cost: Free to see from outside.

12. Walk Around Västra Hamnen

Västra Hamnen, or the Western Harbour, is the modern waterfront neighbourhood around the Turning Torso.

This is one of the best areas in Malmö for a walk by the sea. You will find contemporary buildings, open spaces and places to sit looking across the Øresund towards Denmark.

On a sunny day, you could spend some time walking along the waterfront or stopping at a café. It is also a good area to visit if you want to see a different side of Malmö after exploring the old town.

If you only have a few hours in the city, the walk here may take up a sizeable part of your visit. But if you have a full day and the weather is good, it is worth considering.

Cost: Free to explore.

13. Relax at Ribersborg Beach

If you are visiting during the warmer months, add Ribersborg Beach, often called Ribban, to your list of things to do in Malmö.

This sandy beach is popular for swimming, walks and relaxing by the water. There are also views towards the Øresund Bridge along the coastline.

You can visit outside summer too. Even if it is too cold for a swim, the beach and promenade are pleasant places for a walk. Just bring a jacket if the weather is windy.

Ribersborg is further from the old town than many of the other attractions in this guide, so a local bus can be useful if you want to save time.

Cost: Free to visit the beach.

14. Try Ribersborgs Kallbadhus

For a different experience, visit Ribersborgs Kallbadhus, an open-air bathing house on a pier at Ribersborg Beach.

The bathing house has saunas and access to the sea, giving you the chance to try a Scandinavian bathing experience. It can be particularly appealing if you want a slower, more relaxing day trip.

It is also possible to visit during colder weather, although a dip in the sea will not be for everyone!

Check the current opening hours, prices and bathing rules before visiting. If you are short on time, remember to allow for both the journey to Ribersborg and the time you want to spend at the baths.

Cost: Paid entry.

15. See the Øresund Bridge

The Øresund Bridge connects Sweden and Denmark and is one of the best-known landmarks in the region.

If you take the train from Copenhagen to Malmö, you will cross it during your journey. The route also includes a tunnel on the Danish side, so you will not be above the water for the entire crossing.

For a view of the bridge from Malmö, head towards the coast around Ribersborg. On a clear day, you can see it stretching across the water.

Cost: Free to view from the coast. Train tickets or road tolls apply when crossing.

16. Visit Moderna Museet Malmö

If you enjoy modern art, consider visiting Moderna Museet Malmö.

The museum is housed in a former electricity station and hosts exhibitions of modern and contemporary art. Exhibitions change, so check what is on before your visit to see whether it interests you.

It is also a useful option on a rainy day, particularly if you would rather visit an art museum than Malmö Castle.

Cost: Admission generally applies, but visitors aged 25 and under can enter for free. Check the Moderna Museet website for current exhibitions, prices and opening times.

17. Discover Nordic Design at Form/Design Center

Located close to Lilla Torg, Form/Design Center is a place to discover design, architecture and crafts.

Its central location makes it an easy stop while exploring the old town. Depending on when you visit, you may find exhibitions, events and a shop featuring design-related products.

If you are interested in Scandinavian design, it is worth checking what is on. If not, I would prioritise the old town, castle area and waterfront on a first visit.

Cost: Check the current exhibition and admission details before visiting, as these can change.

18. Enjoy a Swedish Fika

A trip to Sweden is a good excuse to enjoy a fika break.

Fika is a Swedish coffee break that often includes something sweet and time to sit down and relax. For visitors, it is the perfect opportunity to stop at a café and try a cinnamon bun or another Swedish pastry.

You will find plenty of cafés in central Malmö, including around the old town. It is also a useful break if the weather is cold or rainy and you want to warm up between attractions.

Cost: The price of your coffee and pastry will depend on the café.

19. Eat at Malmö Saluhall

If you are wondering where to eat in Malmö, consider stopping at Malmö Saluhall, a food hall with different food and drink options.

It can be a convenient choice if you are travelling with other people and everyone wants something different. You can browse the options before deciding what to order, rather than committing to one restaurant straight away.

However, food halls are not always the cheapest places to eat, so check the prices first. If you are keeping your day trip as affordable as possible, a takeaway or supermarket lunch could be a better option.

Cost: Free to enter; food and drinks cost extra. Check opening hours before visiting.

20. Explore Möllevångstorget

For a different side of Malmö, head towards Möllevångstorget, often called Möllan.

The neighbourhood is known for its international food scene, independent businesses and lively atmosphere. It is a good area to look for a casual meal, with food from different parts of the world.

Möllan is further from Malmö Central Station than the old town, so it makes more sense if you have a full day or are already planning to eat in the area. You can walk there if you do not mind covering more ground, or take a local bus.

Cost: Free to explore; food and shopping cost extra.

21. Visit Folkets Park

Not far from Möllevångstorget is Folkets Park, a public park where you can take a break from sightseeing.

Depending on the season, there may be events and activities taking place. It can be a useful addition to your day if you are visiting Malmö with children or want to spend some time outdoors.

If you only have a few hours in Malmö, I would see the old town and castle area first. However, Folkets Park is worth considering if you have longer or are already visiting Möllan.

Cost: Free to enter the park, although some activities or events may cost extra.

22. Walk Around Pildammsparken

Pildammsparken is one of Malmö’s larger parks, with ponds, paths and open green spaces.

It is a good place to go for a longer walk or a quiet break, particularly if you have more than one day in Malmö or want to spend extra time outdoors.

For a shorter day trip from Copenhagen, however, I would only include it if you have already seen the attractions that interest you most. Kungsparken and Slottsparken are easier to combine with the main sights around Malmö Castle.

Cost: Free.

23. Take a Canal Tour

Another way to see Malmö is from the water on a canal tour or by renting a small boat, depending on what is operating during your visit.

This can be a relaxing alternative to walking and gives you a different view of the city and its green spaces. It is likely to be most appealing when the weather is good.

Boat trips and rentals may operate seasonally, so check availability, departure locations and prices before adding one to your plans.

Cost: Paid activity.

24. Go Shopping at Emporia

If you enjoy shopping or need an indoor activity, Emporia is a large shopping centre near Hyllie Station, outside central Malmö.

There are plenty of shops and places to eat, and Hyllie can be a convenient stop on the train route between Copenhagen and Malmö.

That said, if you are visiting Malmö for the first time and only have one day, I would prioritise the city centre and waterfront. Emporia is more useful if shopping is already on your list or you want an indoor option during bad weather.

Cost: Free to enter; shopping and food cost extra.

How Much Time Do You Need in Malmö?

I would recommend allowing at least five to six hours in Malmö to see the main sights at a comfortable pace.

This gives you enough time to explore the old town, visit the main squares, walk around the castle area and stop for lunch or fika.

If you also want to visit a museum and spend time at the waterfront or Ribersborg Beach, a full day is better. You do not need to fit every attraction in this guide into one visit, so choose the places that interest you most.

How Much Does a Malmö Day Trip Cost?

The cost of a Malmö day trip depends mainly on your train ticket, food choices and whether you visit any paid attractions.

Your main expenses are likely to be:

• Return train tickets between Copenhagen and Malmö.
• Food and drinks, including lunch and a fika stop.
• Museum entry, if you choose to visit Malmö Castle or another paid attraction.
• Local transport, if you take a bus instead of walking.
• Optional activities, such as a canal tour or the open-air bath.

To keep costs down, focus on the free attractions, bring a packed lunch and choose one paid activity that interests you most.

Sweden uses the Swedish krona (SEK), while Denmark uses the Danish krone (DKK). Card payments are widely accepted in Malmö, but check whether your bank charges a foreign transaction fee.

Is Malmö Worth Visiting?

Malmö is an easy and enjoyable day trip from Copenhagen, especially if you want to experience another country without spending hours on transport.

The city may not have the same number of major attractions as Copenhagen, but its historic squares, parks, museums and waterfront offer enough to fill a relaxed day. It is also a good option for budget travellers, as many of the best things to do in Malmö are free.

If you want to see more of southern Sweden, you can also combine Malmö with nearby Lund in one day. You will have less time in each place, but it is possible if you focus on the highlights. For more ideas, check out my guide to the best things to do in Lund.

Looking for more places to explore? Take a look at my guide to the best day trips from Copenhagen

Things to do in Malmo – Frequently Asked Questions

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